Complete step-by-step guide to setting up your official Ledger Wallet™ app. Learn how to securely install, configure, and start managing your cryptocurrency with Ledger Live Desktop.
Start Setup NowFollow these steps to get started with your Ledger Wallet™ app and secure your cryptocurrency assets
Visit the official Ledger website to download Ledger Live Desktop for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Always download from the official source to avoid malicious software.
Run the installer file and follow the on-screen instructions. Ledger Live Desktop will guide you through the installation process with clear prompts and security checks.
Connect your Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or other Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable. Ensure your Ledger device is charged if using Bluetooth.
Follow the setup wizard to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet. This includes setting a secure PIN code and writing down your 24-word recovery phrase in the correct order.
Use the Manager section in Ledger Live Desktop to install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) onto your Ledger device. Each app enables support for that specific cryptocurrency.
Create cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live Desktop for each cryptocurrency you want to manage. You can then receive, send, and track your crypto assets securely.
Ledger® Live: Desktop® is the official cryptocurrency management software designed to work seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets. This getting started guide will walk you through the entire process of setting up your Ledger Wallet™ app to ensure maximum security for your digital assets.
Important: Before beginning your Ledger Live Desktop setup, ensure you have your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or other models) and the original USB cable ready. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone, and always verify transactions on your Ledger device screen.
The first step in getting started with Ledger Live Desktop is downloading the official application from the Ledger website. The Ledger Live Desktop software is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. After downloading the installer, run it and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process on your computer.
Once Ledger Live Desktop is installed, launch the application and connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the provided USB cable. For Ledger Nano X users, you can also connect via Bluetooth for wireless convenience. The Ledger Wallet™ app will automatically detect your connected device and guide you through the initialization process if this is your first time using the hardware wallet.
Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into Ledger Live Desktop or any computer. The recovery phrase should only be entered directly on your Ledger hardware wallet device if absolutely necessary for recovery purposes.
After initializing your Ledger device, you'll need to install cryptocurrency apps through the Manager section of Ledger Live Desktop. Each cryptocurrency you want to manage requires its own app on your Ledger hardware wallet. For example, install the Bitcoin app to manage Bitcoin, the Ethereum app for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens, and so on. These apps are small and don't take up much space on your device.
With your cryptocurrency apps installed, you can now create accounts in Ledger Live Desktop for each cryptocurrency. The Ledger Wallet™ app will generate receiving addresses for you to send crypto to your secure wallet. All transactions must be verified and approved directly on your Ledger hardware wallet device, providing an additional layer of security against malware and phishing attempts.
Ledger Live Desktop also offers additional features like staking, buying cryptocurrency through partners, and portfolio tracking. Explore these options after completing your initial setup to maximize your cryptocurrency management experience with the Ledger Wallet™ app.
Explore these official resources to enhance your Ledger Live Desktop experience
Common questions about getting started with the Ledger Wallet™ app
Ledger Live Desktop is the official cryptocurrency management software for Ledger hardware wallets. To get started, download the application from ledger.com, install it on your computer, connect your Ledger device, and follow the setup wizard to initialize your wallet and install cryptocurrency apps.
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop requires a compatible Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X, Nano S Plus, etc.) to manage cryptocurrency. The software acts as an interface, but all private keys are stored securely on the hardware device itself, not on your computer.
In Ledger Live Desktop, go to the Manager section, connect and unlock your Ledger device, then browse or search for cryptocurrency apps (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Click "Install" to add them to your device. Each app enables support for that specific cryptocurrency.
First, try a different USB cable and port. Ensure your Ledger device is unlocked and in the dashboard screen. Update Ledger Live Desktop to the latest version and make sure your device firmware is updated. If problems persist, consult the Ledger support site for troubleshooting guides.
Ledger Live Desktop automatically checks for updates. When an update is available, you'll see a notification in the application. You can also manually check for updates in Settings > Help. Always ensure you're running the latest version for security and feature improvements.
Yes, you can install Ledger Live Desktop on multiple computers. Your cryptocurrency accounts and transaction history are stored on the blockchain, not locally. When you add your Ledger device to a new computer installation, you'll need to re-add your accounts, but your funds remain secure on the device.
The 24-word recovery phrase is a backup of your entire wallet. You write it down during initial setup and store it securely offline. Only use it to recover your wallet if your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Never enter it into Ledger Live Desktop or any computer.
In Ledger Live Desktop, select the cryptocurrency account, click "Receive," connect and unlock your Ledger device, verify the receive address on your device screen, then approve. The displayed address is where you or others can send cryptocurrency to your wallet.
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop supports staking for various proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies like Tezos (XTZ), Cosmos (ATOM), Polkadot (DOT), and others. Navigate to the "Earn" section in the app to see available staking options for your supported cryptocurrencies.
Ledger Live is available as both a desktop application (Ledger Live Desktop) and a mobile app (Ledger Live Mobile) for iOS and Android. The mobile app offers similar functionality but is designed for on-the-go use with your Ledger Nano X via Bluetooth connection.
Download Ledger Live Desktop now and take control of your cryptocurrency security with the official Ledger Wallet™ app.
Download Ledger Live DesktopAvailable for Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, and Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS)